From Meadows to MountainsWinter 2016Greenview, Alberta

2 Winter 2016

Contact:Administration Building:4806 - 36 Ave. Box 1079 Valleyview, AB. T0H 3N0 Ph. 780.524.7600 Fax 780.524.4307

Operations Building:4802 - 36 Ave., Box 1079 Valleyview, AB. T0H 3N0 Ph. 780.524.7602 Fax 780.524.5237

Engineering & Environmental Services:4806 - 36 Ave., Box 1079 Valleyview, AB. T0H 3N0 Ph. 780.524.7600 Fax 780.524.4432

Family & Community Support Services:4707 - 50 Street Box 1079 Valleyview, AB. T0H 3N0 Ph. 780.524.7603 Fax 780.524.4130

Grovedale Sub-Office:Lot 9, Block 1, Plan 0728786, Box 404 Grovedale, AB. T0H 1X0 Ph. 780.539.7337 Fax 780.539.7711

Grande Cache Sub-Office (Eagle’s Nest Hall):10028 - 99 St., Box 214 Grande Cache, AB. T0E 0Y0 Ph. 780.827.5155 Fax 780.827.5143

Office hours 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Please note that all of our offices are closed from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. daily.

HighlightsMeet Your Councillors ........................................... 2

Reeve’s Message .................................................. 3

Upcoming Events .................................................. 4

Water Quality Testing Summary 2015 .................. 4

Snow Safety Tips .................................................... 5

Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum Opens ............ 6

Red Road Gala ..................................................... 7

Alerts & Reminders ................................................ 7

Grovedale Area Structure Plan (ASP) Citizens’ Panel #1 .................................................. 8

Wolf Harvest Incentive Program .......................... 8

Greenview Recreation Inventory Update .......... 9

Grande Cache Residential Garbage Disposal Fees ........................................ 9

Alberta’s must-ride circle tour ............................ 10

Livestock Tax Deferral Program ......................... 11

Green View Family and Community Support Services .................................................. 12

Upcoming Tenders .............................................. 12

Senior Housing Questionnaire ............................ 13

Walk in Mental Health Services/Counselling .... 15

Sod Turning Ceremony of the Valleyview Regional Recreation Facility .............................. 16

Swan Lake Aeration ............................................ 17

Land Use Bylaw Review ...................................... 17

2015 Completed Road Construction Projects ... 18

Landfill & Transfer Station Hours ......................... 19

2015 Photo Contest Awards Presentation ........ 20

Meet Your CouncillorsCouncillor George DelormeWARD 1, Grande CacheCell: 780.827.6401Email: George.Delorme@mdgreenview.ab.ca

Reeve Dale GervaisWARD 2, Little SmokyCell: 780.524.7714Email: Dale.Gervais@mdgreenview.ab.ca

Councillor Leslie UrnessWARD 3, ValleyviewHome: 780.524.4036Cell: 780.524.8477Email: Les.Urness@mdgreenview.ab.ca

Councillor Dave HayWARD 4, Sunset HouseCell: 780.558.9163Email: Dave.Hay@mdgreenview.ab.ca

Councillor Dale SmithWARD 5, New Fish CreekHome: 780.524.2790Cell: 780.558.9337Email: Dale.Smith@mdgreenview.ab.ca

Councillor Tom BurtonWARD 6, DeBoltHome: 780.957.3601Cell: 780.512.1558Email: Tom.Burton@mdgreenview.ab.ca

Councillor Roxie RuttWARD 7, Crooked CreekCell: 780.558.9640Email: Roxie.Rutt@mdgreenview.ab.ca

Councillor Bill SmithWARD 8, GrovedaleHome: 780.831.9533Cell: 587.343.5463Email: Bill.Smith@mdgreenview.ab.ca

Cover Image Credit: Christine Schlief, Kakwa Falls

3Greenview, Alberta

Reeve’s MessageThe Scotties Tournament of Hearts will be welcomed to our region from February 20 to 28, 2016. Greenview is happy to be a community sponsor and assist in bringing this world class event to our region. Winter is also a great time to get outside and enjoy our many recreational opportunities. From ice fishing at Swan Lake to snowmobiling with the Golden Triangle, Greenview has so many places to explore.

Looking to the future, Council is interested in finding out what our residents perceive to be the areas of greatest need. Preparing for our current needs and an aging population, FCSS is conducting a Seniors Housing Needs Survey. You will find the survey on pages 13 to 14 of this newsletter. Please fill out the form and send it in to one of our offices, or complete the survey online by following the link on our website.

In 2015 we accomplished many projects, a few highlights are the roads construction listing on page 18 and the sod turning ceremony for the Valleyview Regional Recreation Facility (page 16). Work on that important

project is currently underway and will continue into 2017.

With recent mailbox and property thefts in our municipality, it is important to take precautions to ensure that your property is protected. Some tips from the RCMP are provided here for your consideration.

As always together with Council I’m interested in hearing from you. Let us know what is working well and how we can continue to better meet your needs.

Best wishes, Reeve Dale Gervais

RCMP Property Protection Tips Doors• Do you keep your doors locked at all times even when you’re home?• Have you re-keyed your locks since you moved in?• Are all exterior doors solid core hardwood or metal covered with

good quality deadbolts?• Are strike plates reinforced with 3 screws that pass through the door

frame and into the wall stud?• Is the glass in outside doors shatter resistant and at least 40 cm from

the lock?• Do all out-swing doors have a hinge with a locking pin or non-

removable pins?• Does your door fit snugly in your door jam (within 1/4 inch)?• Have you inserted screws into the top track of your patio door to

prevent it from being lifted up and removed?

Garage• Does your garage door close tightly? Is it locked and closed when not

in use?• Does your automatic garage door opener use a rolling code system

to prevent code grabbing?• For garages without an electronic opener, does it have heavy duty

padlocks installed on both sides of the door?• Is there a switch to shut off the automatic garage door?• Is the door from the garage into the house equipped with a deadbolt

and do you always lock it?• Is the garage door opener in a non-visible spot in your vehicle - or

ideally not kept in your vehicle?• Do you remove your keys from vehicles parked inside your garage

even if the garage is locked?• Do you remove all valuables from plain sight in your vehicle?• Do you have window coverings on all garage windows?

Windows• Are all basement and ground floor windows fitted with window

security bars, security pins or security latches?• Do you have window coverings on all windows to prevent outsiders

from seeing in?• Do you display decals on accessible windows that would alert

potential intruders that you are security-minded and have preventative measures in place (e.g. that you have a home alarm system, private security and/or are an active Block Watch member)?

Alarm System• Do you have a functioning alarm system installed in your home?• Have you advised your neighbors to call the police should your alarm

go off while you are away?

Vacations• Have you stopped all regular deliveries (e.g., newspapers)?• Have you left shades and blinds in their normal positions?• Have you set timers on lights and radio?• Did you test your smoke and burglar alarms?• Did you turn the ringer on your telephone down low?• Have you unplugged or locked your overhead garage door to

prevent entry?• Is someone taking care of your yard?• Is your mail being held or picked up?• Have you notified your neighbours and asked them to keep an eye

on your place?

Note of ThanksI would personally like to thank the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department in Gravedale and in the M.D. of Greenview #16. They seem to be pushed to the back of our thoughts until needed. During December there was an incident in which my household required their services. We found them professional, prepared, timely & supportive during the emergency. It was such a joy to see a familiar face from my community, coming to assist so quickly. So please join me in thanking these fantastic men & women that share their valuable time to help our communities 24/7. Please keep up the wonderful service you alone provide. Thanks again, it can’t be said enough.

Debbie Lester, Grovedale

3Greenview, Alberta

Reeve Dale Gervais at the Valleyview Regional Recreation Facility sod turning ceremony December 15, 2015.

4 Winter 2016

Water Quality Testing Summary 2015In April 2011, the Smoky Applied Research and Demonstration Association (“SARDA”) retained Aquality Environmental Consulting Ltd. (“Aquality”) to design and implement a pilot water quality study on three watercourses in their research area (Peavine Creek, New Fish Creek and Little Smoky River). The purpose of the study was to provide SARDA with baseline water quality data to evaluate watercourses for the protection of both freshwater aquatic life and safe source drinking water. The results will also be used to determine the scope of future monitoring programs.

Sample locations were chosen by SARDA and were based on their proximity to agricultural lands, uses as drinking water intakes, and their likelihood of exposure to terrestrial inputs. Sampling in 2015 extends the monitoring program initially run from 2011 to 2014. Sampling events occurred twice per year in the same manner as the previous years’ sampling program. Sampling occurred once in the late spring to early summer after the spraying of pre-

emergent herbicides on croplands, and again in late summer to early fall, after crops are removed. Samples are analyzed for pesticides, nutrients, metals, an d bacteria. Sampling is scheduled to continue in 2016.

To read the 2015 water quality testing details, go to the SARDA website at www.sarda.ca or contact their office by phone 780-837-2900. Previous years’ results are recorded in the Annual Reports located under the publications tab on their website.

Scotties Tournament of Hearts February 20 to 28, 2016 at Revolution Place in Grande Prairie

Regular Council Meetings February 9 and 20, March 8 and 22, April 12 and 26

Committee of the Whole February 16 and April 19

Municipal Planning Commission February 10, March 9 and April 13

Green View FCSS February 17, March 16 and April 20 at the Community Resource Centre

Agricultural Services Board February 24, March 23 and April 27

Unless otherwise specified, all meetings take place in the Council Chambers at the Administration Building in Valleyview beginning at 9:00 am. Green View FCSS meetings take place at the Community Resource Centre. ASB and FCSS meetings begin at 9:30 a.m. The public and media are welcome to attend or observe our Council Chambers live stream via the Internet. To view our live feed please visit our website at www.mdgreenview.ab.ca and click on the Live Stream link.

Upcoming Events

5Greenview, Alberta

Snow Safety TipsThe Office of the Fire Commissioner, as the coordinating body of Search and Rescue initiatives in Alberta, is a proud supporter of AdventureSmart (www.adventuresmart.ca). That’s why this January we’re focusing on the importance of snow safety. Before you head out this winter in search of exciting snow adventures across Alberta, be sure you are well prepared for the potential dangers that come with playing in snowy, icy and remote areas.

1. Have the right gear.• Dress in layers to help regulate body temperature.

• Keep your head, ears and hands covered to avoid frostbite.

• Wear your helmet, especially when skiing, skating, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

2. Be avalanche aware.• Know the avalanche dangers in your area.

• Check avalanche bulletins before heading out.

• Carry and practice with an avalanche beacon, probe and shovel.

• Avalanches involving people don’t occur randomly. Over 90 per cent of the time, the victims or someone in their group triggers the snow slide.

3. Respect boundaries.• Going out-of-bounds is extremely dangerous.

• You not only endanger your life, but also the lives of search and rescue volunteers.

4. Ski and snowboard responsibly.• Know and follow the Alpine Responsibility Code.

• If a run is closed, respect the signage and never ski out of bounds.

5. Snowmobile safely.• Keep your speed slow enough to stay in control of your

snowmobile.

• Alcohol use is a leading cause of snowmobiling-related fatalities.

• Respect closed areas.

• Ensure you’re properly trained and equipped to survive a night outside.

6. Test the ice.• Check ice thickness before heading out.

• Always stay off ice that is 7cm (3 in) or less.

• The minimum ice depth for ice fishing, walking, and cross country skiing is 10cm (4 in).

• The minimum ice depth for one snowmobile or ATV is 12cm (5 in).

7. If you break through the ice, know what to do.• Don’t panic. Your clothing will trap air and keep you

buoyant.

• Turn towards the direction you came from and place your hands and arms flat on the unbroken surface.

• Kick your feet and try to push yourself up on top of the unbroken ice on your stomach, like a seal.

• Once you are lying on the ice, don’t stand up. Roll away from the break until you are on solid ice.

8. Leave a trip plan.• Your trip plan explains your destination, travel route,

equipment, and expected return time.

• This vital information can help search and rescue volunteers, in case of an emergency.

Artist Credit: Office of the Fire Commissioner

6 Winter 2016

52,000 visitors in 88 days!The soft opening of the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum on September 3, 2015 was a historic landmark. Long crowds waited with palpable excitement written all over children’s faces as the doors were finally opened at 4:00 PM. With hundreds of eager visitors streaming into the highly interactive exhibit environment, Canada’s newest museum set social media abuzz with Twitter feeds, Facebook and Instagram postings by the thousands! The long lines continued through the week despite some wet weather.

The MD of Greenview provided $250,000 towards educational programs, e-learning and community outreach activities in addition to being the sponsor for the Oil and Natural Gas wing of the museum.

Among those who visited included two provincial Cabinet Ministers. Honourable David Eggen, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Education was the first to arrive. He was most impressed when told that months before the opening the museum had already launched summer programs, bonebed tours and online learning modules. Making his way through surging crowds, he walked through the Jurassic, Triassic, Cretaceous and Devonian periods leading up to the Oil and Natural Gas wing. The tour took a different turn as he boarded the museum helicopter to fly over the world’s densest bonebed!

Energy Minister Honourable Margaret McQuaig-Boyd was next to arrive and was equally pleased to see the high

quality of interactive and augmented reality platforms. While commenting on the vision and the speed of project implementation, she admired the award winning architecture that resonated with the content aesthetics and dynamic presentation methods.

The Side family hosted a reception at the museum on September 25, 2015 with guests which included Dr. Phil Currie and Dr. Eva Koppelhus. “The Side family is pleased to be associated with this wonderful facility that offers not only a cutting edge, highly interactive exhibit experience, but excels at education, outreach, community engagement, films, traveling exhibits, lectures, demonstrations, e-learning, shopping, dining, playground and events. More than monetary support, the Side family has always been a strong proponent of reading, education and stimulating the minds of children through cognitive learning. The museum offers an unmatched platform to our communities while impacting the economies of the region in more ways than one. We are proud to be part of this world-class institution,” remarked Linda Side, flanked by Rhonda, Barb and Al Side and their families as they donated $500,000.

The Amber Ball Gala on September 26 with Dan and Donna Dixon Aykroyd was a huge success with Jim Cuddy and Colin James working the crowds at Entrec Centre. “The museum will need to look beyond the opening to create a viable, sustainable and progressive institution that will be vital to palaeontological research, fieldwork and professional presence through teaching and active publications and conferences”, said Currie Museum President and CEO George Jacob. “This also creates room for synergistic possibilities with the endowed professorship from the University of Alberta who will be stationed at the museum”, added Jacob after meeting with UofA President and Vice Chancellor Dr. David Turpin.

While this is the fastest museum project delivered in Canadian history, active collaborations, partnerships and affiliations would eventually contribute towards and strengthen the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum in its quest for excellence, best practices and community service as an international institution for experiential learning.

With record braking attendance topping 52,000, the museum is estimated to contribute $7 for every dollar spent to the regional economy. Plans are afoot to create a destination chain between Jasper, Grande Cache dinosaur tracks and Pipestone Creek, for national and international tourists with jetboating, helicopter rides, dinosaur digs and waterfalls on the itinerary in the year ahead.

“For more than 35 years, Philip Currie’s name has been synonymous with dinosaurs in Alberta and Canada. The impact of his research has been realized around the globe and has established Alberta as an internationally renowned dinosaur hub. Due in no small part to the work Dr. Currie has completed during his tenure, the University of Alberta is recognized as one of the premier places in the world to study vertebrate paleontology. The establishment of the Philip J. Currie Professorship in Paleontology at the museum will ensure that we remain at the forefront of this discipline.”

David Turpin, CM, PhD, LLD, FRSC, Order of Canada

President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Alberta

Making history - Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum Opens

7Greenview, Alberta

Red Road GalaReprinted with permission from Northlands School DivisionAuthor Credit: Curtis Walty Photo Credit: Jaeda Feddema

The 4th Annual Red Road Gala will be one to remember. The event, hosted by the Aseniwuche Winewak Nation’s (AWN) Aboriginal Youth Council, carried on despite a power outage November 21st at the Grande Cache Legion. The council, which includes students from Susa Creek School, provided a night filled with dancing and drumming while wearing traditional clothing. The event helps to raise money for the youth council and promote healthy lifestyle choices for youth.

Kyleigh Wanyandie, “It was really fun and I was glad everyone was having a good time. My favourite part was the dancing. I thought the show was going to stop when the power went out but when I heard that the show was going to keep going I was happy. Having a show in the dark, I could barely see, and I was a little afraid that I was going to fall off the stage when I was dancing. I enjoyed dancing.”

Devina Doire, “It was nice, my favourite part was when the lights went out and we kept it going, working together as a community. It was different dancing and modelling in the dark. It was nice to see the new outfits and it was cool to hear the sound of the jingles to the beat of the drum.”

Rhythm Hallock, “It was fun when I went there. When I first got there I was happy. I was happy that I got to perform and I was happy to see most of my family and walk (model) with my cousin. The silliest part is the when the power went off and on but I liked it when it went off. It was nice

you could still see with the candles on the stage. I liked seeing everyone laugh and seeing everyone happy.”

Rebecca Wanyandie, “It was fun because we got to model and dance. It was fun when I got to dance fancy.”

Alerts and Reminders• Dust Control – Dust Control Application Forms will be available at our MD Offices and on our

website at www.mdgreenview.ab.ca starting March 1, 2016. The application deadline is April 15, 2016.

• Winter maintenance continues throughout Greenview. Please watch out for plough trucks, graders and other equipment maintaining the roads of Greenview.

• Road Bans and Road Bonds will be implemented on the MD roads when required due to weather changes. All updates can be found at our website or by contacting the Operations Department at 780-524-7602.

8 Winter 2016

Grovedale Area Structure Plan (ASP) Citizens’ Panel #1The first Grovedale ASP Citizens’ Panel meeting hosted on the evening of December 9, 2015 was primarily used as a starting point to identify big-picture themes, and begin to gather input for the main areas in need of review within the Grovedale ASP area. We began the session with a quick PowerPoint presentation identifying the three pillars of sustainability which are to be used as a basis for the compilation of the Grovedale ASP. These pillars of sustainability include economic, social and environmental aspects; importance was placed on the overlap between each pillar and its dependency on the next. Second, we placed these three pillars of sustainability as headings on a “sticky wall” where panel members were asked to write articles which they felt pertained to each pillar of sustainability. Finally, we ended with a mapping exercise where each panel member was provided with an aerial view map of the plan area, and asked to use coloured dots to represent the preferred location of residential, commercial, industrial and areas for recreational development.

Overall, a clear consensus was gathered using brainstorming information, and the physical mapping exercise. The following points were gathered between the two exercises:

ENVIRONMENTAL• Designate spaces for recreational activities that do not cause

conflict between uses (e.g. ATV, biking, walking, equestrian, cross-country ski, snowmobiles, etc.)

• Sustain the river valley and be cognizant of the importance of protecting wetlands/watersheds.

• Consider implications of industrial and commercial development on water needs/availability.

• Maintain green space in new developments.

• Consider proximity to wells and pipelines/implications on different uses.

SOCIAL• Consider the increasing need for water and sanitary

infrastructure within the plan area.

• Maintain/protect/promote agriculture in the community and encourage alternative agricultural pursuits.

• Allow removal of 4 subdivisions per quarter section to keep farms in the family.

• Separate non-compatible land uses (ie. industrial/commercial and residential).

• Create areas for recreation within the community.

• The cemetery should be protected and opportunities for expansion should be considered.

• Consider the need to “age in place” for Grovedale senior citizens.

ECONOMIC• Industrial development should flank the east side of Highway

40 (forestry/agricultural support services etc.)

• Commercial development should flank both sides of TWP 700 close to existing commercial development.

• Residential development should be placed south of Landry Heights and north of the existing hamlet subdivision.

• Light industrial/commercial development should be contained within the boundaries of a defined industrial park area, or an area of that nature.

• Open more crown land for use.

Wolf Harvest Incentive ProgramHow do you qualify?• A wolf must be humanely harvested on or within 8 km of the

agricultural area. You will be asked for a legal land location for our records.

• Must be an adult wolf.

• If trapped, you must provide a copy of your trapping licence for our files.

• If harvested on lands other than your own land, a written permission letter must be submitted with stated land location(s) must be submitted with the wolf.

How to submit a wolf?• You must call a minimum of one business day ahead to

ensure an Agricultural Representative is available (typically Monday mornings for Valleyview and Tuesday mornings for Grovedale).

• Provide the permission letter, if wolf was harvested on lands other than your own.

• Copy of trapping licence, if trapped.

• Annual pre-registration (can be filled out on day of submission).

• Contract of participation (filled out on day of submission).

9Greenview, Alberta

Greenview Recreation Inventory UpdateThroughout 2015 the Greenview recreation inventory continued to make strides. Rivers, lakes, forests and urban areas were further explored for recreation opportunities and 85 potential sites have been identified to date.

No matter where the inventory led one common theme always surfaced. The area that makes up Greenview is an amazing place. It is comprised of diverse and beautiful landscapes. Its natural areas provide a healthy environment and recreation opportunities for all ages with experiences that are unsurpassed.

Greenview’s landscapes are the common ground between all of us that provide the foundation for our economic success today and the building blocks for future generations to carry forward.

Some places of interest noted by Recreation Services in the 2015 recreation inventory include the remarkable diversity found on the Little Smoky River in the Valleyview area. This easily accessible waterway not only offers beautiful scenery but also opportunities for fishing, canoeing, family friendly beaches and even white water kayaking. Another wonderful recreation destination is the Grovedale area, where the quality and complexity of trails used for ATVing, hiking and mountain biking is exceptional. Whether the user is novice or experienced there is something for everyone.

Of the many recreation areas inventoried, the overriding highlight of this past years’

inventory was the many encounters with local residents and visitors enjoying Greenview’s beautiful outdoors. Whether it was family groups camping, a parent and child fishing, a person paddle boarding with their dog, hunters or someone taking a break out of their day to just enjoy the scenery they all had one thing in common: we all agree Greenview is a beautiful and amazing place to experience.

Stacey Wabick Recreation Inventory Coordinator MD of Greenview

Grande Cache Residential Garbage Disposal FeesAs of January 1, 2016 the Town of Grande Cache has changed the procedure for charging tipping fees at their landfill site. Payments will be charged to debit or credit card by the transfer station attendant. To make the process more convenient for MD residents, the Municipal District of Greenview has made arrangements with the Town of Grande Cache to directly cover costs associated with the disposal of solid waste at the Town of Grande Cache’s landfill.

Greenview will require residents to provide their names and rural addresses to the attendant at the Town of Grande Cache’s landfill. A map will be provided to the attendant to assist with identifying the house numbers and rural addresses.

This information is required for the MD of Greenview to pay the Town of Grande Cache for the disposal fees on behalf of all MD

residents. The disposal fees will be covered for residents of the co-operatives and enterprises only and not individuals living in the Town of Grande Cache. This applies only to residential (non-commercial) solid waste.

The Town of Grande Cache has agreed to a three month trial period. We hope this transition will go smoothly and will share further information if there are any changes required to the new process. If you have any questions, please contact Ersula in Eagle’s Nest Hall and she can assist. She can be reached at 780-827-5155.

Sincerely,Gary CouchEnvironmental Services ManagerMD of Greenview

10 Winter 2016

The Golden Triangle Trail takes riders through heavily wooded areas, across rolling hills and along rivers. As well, there are plenty of cutlines along the way where riders can find powder to play in. Kirsten Armleder photo

Reprinted from Snoriders http://snoriderswest.com/article/whitecourt/albertas_must_ride_circle_tour

Long-distance rides are great, but they’re usually not something you can plan during the week and do on the weekend. Unless, it’s the Golden Triangle. This 350-kilometre trail in Central Alberta is a turnkey option for those who love putting on the miles, and it’s a circle loop, so there’s no need to retrace your tracks.

Groomed and signed, the Golden Triangle links Whitecourt, Swan Hills and Fox Creek. You can start riding from any of these towns and the entire length of the trail can be ridden in one, really long day. Most, however, choose to break it up into a two- or three-day ride.

WhitecourtThe largest of the three towns, Whitecourt is truly snowmobiler friendly. Take for example, the World Snowmobile Invasion that took place there in February 2015. It was a million-dollar event that saw over 10,000 sledders from Canada, the U.S. and overseas in attendance.

Things will be a lot quieter in Whitecourt this winter, but the Whitecourt Trailblazers will be hosting the club’s annual family snowmobile rally in February and they have a concert planned for Saturday night.

Now, back to the Golden Triangle. From Whitecourt, the trails head north to Swan Hills. Along this 115-kilometre section, you will see poplar and spruce forests, rolling hills, lakes and rivers. The Athabasca Look-Out and the Carson Warm-Up Shelter are a couple of good stops along the way.

Getting there: The Golden Triangle starts at the Eagle River Staging Area, 10 minutes northwest of Whitecourt on Highway 32 towards Swan Hills.

Parking: The Eagle River Staging Area has ample parking, a loading ramp and a warm-up shelter.

Swan HillsThe Whitecourt to Swan Hills leg of the Golden Triangle is the most scenic, but the Swan Hills to Fox Creek leg is the snowiest. Due to the high elevation of Swan Hills, this town and the surrounding area receive above-average snowfall.

If you’re tempted to spend some more time exploring this year, try the Krause Lake trail system; it is maintained by the Swan Hills Snow-Goers.

Getting there: Staging for the Golden Triangle and the Krause Lake trails begins on the south side of Highway 33 by the Tourist Booth.

Fox CreekThe burgeoning town of Fox Creek is a great place to start your Golden Triangle ride. There are several newer accommodations in Fox Creek, and snowmobiling from your hotel is allowed. Members of the Northland Snow-Goers also currently maintain two cabins along the Golden Triangle, the Trappers Cabin and the Eagle Cabin, in addition to the club’s own trail system. This winter, though, there will a third cabin installed along the section of the Golden Triangle Trail that runs from Fox Creek to Swan Hills.

Getting there: The entrance to the Fox Creek snowmobile trails and the Golden Triangle starts on the north end of 1st Street at the 2nd Avenue intersection.

Parking: If you’re not riding from your hotel or motel, parking is available at the Fox Creek Community Hall or the Arena.

Whitecourt Trailblazers Annual Family Snowmobile Rally

Meet some new people and tear up the trails around Whitecourt. Kirsten Armleder photo

Come and see for yourself what the hype surrounding Whitecourt, Alberta, is all about. This event features two days of riding along the club’s famed trail system with checkpoints along the way. There will be snacks at some of the checkpoints and food will be available throughout the weekend by Betty’s Catering.

There will be cash and prizes each day, and each rally ticket purchased will also be entered to win a Polaris snowmobile and a Ski-Doo snowmobile. The club will also be having an evening social with a DJ and food available.

The Whitecourt Trailblazers know how to throw one heck of a party, so this is an event you won’t want to miss. Save the dates: February 13 & 14, 2016.

For more information, see the club’s website www.whitecourttrailblazers.ca/.

Kirsten Armleder

Alberta’s must-ride circle tour

11Greenview, Alberta

Livestock Tax Deferral ProgramThis is a federal government program that allows farmers who sell part of their breeding herd due to drought or excess moisture and flood conditions in designated regions to defer a portion of sale proceeds to the following year (see definition of breeding herd at http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/I-3.3/page-116.html#docCont). Each year, a list of designated regions prescribed as drought and/or excess moisture and flood regions is announced by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

How It WorksTo defer income, the breeding herd must have been reduced by at least 15 per cent. Thirty per cent of income from net sales can be deferred if the breeding herd has been reduced by at least 15 per cent, but less than 30 per cent. Where the herd has been reduced by 30 per cent or more, 90 per cent of income from net sales can be deferred.

Proceeds from deferred sales are included as income in the next tax year, when they may be partially offset by the cost of reacquiring breeding animals. In the case of consecutive years of drought or excess moisture and flood designation, producers may defer sales income to the first year in which the area is no longer designated.

For more details on the tax deferral provisions, see the Canada Revenue Agency’s Tax Guide on Farming Income (www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/bsnss/sgmnts/frmng/menu-eng.html)

How the Regions are Designated Drought or excessive moisture and flood regions are designated on the advice of the Minster of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to the Minister of Finance. Canada Revenue Agency

requires that designated areas have recognized geo-political boundaries (e.g. municipalities or counties) for administrative purposes.

Discussions with industry representatives in 1990 led to a decision that tax deferral would only be requested if the impact was significant. “Significant” was defined as forge yields of less than 50 per cent of the long-term average, and an area that is large enough to have an impact on the industry. Impacts on individual municipalities would not result in a designation.

Livestock producers have also indicated a strong preference for designation to take place as early as possible to provide them with the information needed to make fall and winter management decisions.

A preliminary designation can usually be done in September if it appears that the criteria will be met. Since forage yield information is not final until later in the year, preliminary designation is made primarily on the basis of spring moisture and summer rainfall, supplemented with

estimates of forage yield. Assessments of areas are reviewed in discussions with federal and provincial staff. Final decisions and any needed adjustments are made when all forage yield information is available, usually in December.

Only drought or excessive moisture and flood-induced impacts are considered in the designation of eligible areas for tax deferral.

For further information please contact the Minister’s Office:

Honourable Lawrence MacAulayMinister of Agriculture and Agri-food CanadaEmail: lawrence.macaulay@parl.gc.caPhone: 613.995.9325

Recycle Bin Survey Coming SoonGreenview will be conducting a survey in the near future regarding the large blue recycle bins currently located in the communities with possible relocation to the nearest Transfer Stations. Survey details will be advertised on our website and in the next MD newsletter.

Greenview has been added to Agriculture and

Agri-Food Canada’s list of additional

designated areas for the program.

12 Winter 2016

Green View Family and Community Support ServicesContact us at 780.524.7603

2016 Volunteer AppreciationGreen View FCSS will be hosting Volunteer Appreciation dinners in Valleyview on April 13 and in Grovedale on April 14. Watch for more details closer to the date!

Community Volunteer Income Tax ProgramVolunteers for this program will be available in March and April both in Valleyview and DeBolt. Contact Green View FCSS for more details.

Welcome BasketsAre you new to the community? Welcome baskets are available to Valleyview, Sunset House, Little Smoky, DeBolt, Ridgevalley and Grovedale area residents through Green View FCSS. Simply fill out a questionnaire and FCSS will provide you or your family with a basket of useful items to help you get settled in your new home. Contact their office for more information.

Senior Housing QuestionnaireGreen View FCSS is surveying our residents regarding their views on Senior Housing to determine what future needs may be. This is a needs assessment to assist Greenview in discussions with other levels of government. Residents can provide feedback either on line at mdgreenview.ab.ca/programs-services/communications/ or by filling out the survey form, available through our offices. The names of all survey respondents will be entered in a draw for a Greenview prize pack.

Family and Community Support Services Association of Alberta (FCSSAA) Award of Merit

The FCSSAA has awarded Roxanne Perron, Green View FCSS Board Chair, an achievement award. The Award of Merit recognizes individuals for their spirit, imagination and dedication to strengthening the social fabric of the community through a demonstrated commitment to improving preventative social programs and services. Ms. Perron was recognized at the 2015 FCSSAA conference in November.

Upcoming TendersTender notifications will be posted on our website when they are open for bids. The following tenders will be advertised in Spring 2016:

• ¾ Ton and 1 Ton Pick Up Trucks (Crew Cab)

• Brush Chipper• Backhoe

• Plow Truck• Rotary Mower• Road Sweeper• JCB Tractor/Backhoe

• Skid Steer• Graders, Blades & Tools• Crushing Contracts• Line Painting and Crack Sealing

13Greenview, Alberta

Senior Housing QuestionnaireGreenview Council recognizes that our population is aging, and as a result we are gathering information about current and future seniors’ housing needs in the municipality. This needs assessment will be in the form of surveys and focus groups. Information and access to the needs assessment survey will take place through the Greenview website at www.mdgreenview.ab.ca; social media; newsletters; Administration offices and Home Support Workers. If you would like to fill out the survey on paper you are welcome to submit these pages to your nearest Greenview or Green View FCSS office, or mail to Box 1079 Valleyview AB T0H 3N0 Attention: FCSS. For your convenience, the survey will also be available in an online format accessible through our website.

The survey is anonymous, and results will be posted in the specified distribution areas. If you would like to be entered in a raffle prize, there is an optional section for providing your contact information at the end of the survey. The survey will close on May 23, 2016. Raffle will be drawn in June 2016.

1. What is your age category? Under 50 50-60 61-70

71-80 81-90 91-100

100+

3. How long have you resided in the area? Less than 3 years 5-10 years Over 10 years

4. What is your current marital status? Single Married Other

5. Please indicate your current living status? Renting Home Owner

Living in subsidized housing Living with relatives

Living in a senior facility Other (specify)______________________

6. If you were to relocate to senior housing/facility, where would be your preference? Nearby City Nearby Town Neighboring Community

7. Are you aware of the senior housing options available in your area? Yes No

8. Please rate the necessity for senior housing options in your community? Not required Required, not urgent

Required, somewhat urgent Required, urgently

2. Which of these communities do you reside in or are located closest to you? Grovedale DeBolt Ridgevalley Sunset House

Sweathouse Little Smoky New Fish Creek Fox Creek Area

Grande Cache Area (including Cooperatives and Enterprises)

Valleyview Other (specify)______________________

9. Are you or someone in your family currently on a waiting list for a seniors housing facility? Yes No

14 Winter 2016

Senior Housing Questionnaire - continued

Please provide any additional comments to assist us with understanding your current or future senior housing needs.

Contact Information: (OPTIONAL – to be used for raffle draw)

Name: _______________________________________________________________________

Mailing Address: ______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Ward (if known): ______________________________________________________________

Phone Number: ______________________________________________________________

E-mail: _______________________________________________________________________

13. Would you require your living arrangements to be subsidized? Yes No

10. Would you prefer to rent or own independent senior housing? Rent Own

11. How would you rate your current knowledge of monthly fees for senior housing costs? Poor Somewhat knowledgeable

Very knowledgeable Expert

12. How would you rate your knowledge on current wait times to access senior housing? Poor Somewhat knowledgeable

Very knowledgeable Expert

14. If a senior’s housing development was established in your area, what would be your preference? Age friendly apartment/

condominium/house Lodge

Facility for couples with different care needs

Other (specify)______________________

15. What community senior services are most important to you? Meals on Wheels Home Support Medical services

Access to 24/7 nurses aid Covered parking Transportation

Meal preparation Other (specify)______________________

FOIP Disclosure/Collection Statement

Any personal information that the Municipal District of Greenview may collect on this form is in compliance with Section 33 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The information collected is required for the purpose of carrying out an operating program or activity of the Municipality, in particular for the purpose of the Seniors Housing Survey. If you have any questions about the collection please contact the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Coordinator at 780.524.7600.

15Greenview, Alberta

Walk in Mental Health Services/Counselling Available in ValleyviewPhoto Credit: Susie PetersAuthor Credit: Lisa Hannaford

Photo Caption: Lisa Hannaford, Manager of Green View FCSS and Geof Cornelsen, Counselor for Alberta Mental Health Services in the foyer of the FCSS Building

Through monthly interagency meetings hosted by FCSS at the Green View Community Resource Center, representatives from a wide variety of social service agencies meet to share information on programs and services available to community residents. These meetings not only provide a place to learn about available programming and potential assistance to clients, but also serve as a venue to identify community needs or gaps that are unmet. In spring of 2015, access to public mental health services was an identified need. Although these services are available in Valleyview, residents often face lengthy wait times and obstacles in accessing local help and as a result a new partnership has emerged.

Green View FCSS and Alberta Health Services have struck an innovative partnership to provide weekly mental health/counselling services. Northern Addictions Centre Manager Irene Gladue and Valleyview Short Term Clinical Co-ordinator Jody Kozak along with Geof Cornelsen counsellor from Alberta Mental Health were immediately on board with the idea and the project is up and running.

Every Tuesday morning, an AHS mental health therapist works out of the Green View FCSS Community Resource Center to provide counselling/therapy on a walk in basis. Needs are assessed and counselling is provided immediately at no cost. Currently the service is available from 8:30-12:00, however depending on need, hours could easily be extended to the afternoon. There is also potential

to offer afternoon groups that address specific issues such as grief and loss, marriage enrichment, anger management and emotional regulation skills. Not only can people seek assistance without a lengthy wait time, clients are also introduced to other programs, services and resources that can support their needs.

Green Viewin partnership with

is pleased to offerDrop-In Mental Health Support

on a weekly basis.FCSS will host a Mental Health Therapist

8:30 am to 12:00 pm every TUESDAY.If you need extra support or counselling, simply come to the

Community Resource Center during these times.

Green View Family & Community Support Services4707 - 50 Street, Box 1079 Valleyview, Alberta T0H 3N0

Phone: 780.524.7603

Greenview is proud to be a Community Partner for the Scotties Tournament of Hearts 2016!From Fox Creek to Grande Cache, DeBolt to Grovedale; while you’re visiting our region this winter, follow us on social media and post your winter adventure photos on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook with #Greenview.

Enjoying a friendly game of curling at The Narrows on Sturgeon Lake. - Photo by Susie Peters

16 Winter 2016

Sod Turning Ceremony of the Valleyview Regional Recreation FacilityWork on the Valleyview Regional Recreation Facility is well underway. Design of the project began in March 2015. On December 15, 2015 the MD of Greenview and Town of Valleyview celebrated a sod turning ceremony for the project, popularly known as the Valleyview Multiplex. As of January, all of the contracts for the facility construction have been awarded. For the next 3 months they will be working on the foundation of the facility and pouring concrete slabs. The central corridor should be completed before spring and the construction team aims to begin the field work in the spring season. The project is targeted to be complete in 2017.

The building area of the facility will be 7622m2 with 13.8 acres of site area and 206 parking stalls. It will boast aquatics, a fieldhouse, a commercial kitchen, children’s play area and a fitness centre.

The aquatics area will have a 4 lane - 25m pool, a leisure pool with lazy river and tots area, a whirl pool, change rooms for families, men and women, 350 person capacity, adjacent party/multipurpose room, main floor dry viewing and overflow viewing on second floor.

The fieldhouse will be able to accommodate 3 cross courts of basketball, 1 competition size basketball court, 9 badminton courts, or 3 volleyball courts with 6 team style change rooms.

Also, gymnastics programs will be able to use the cross courts and have a devoted storage room. The commercial kitchen that is being built along the field house is capable of catering large volume events. As an event centre the field house will be able to accommodate 575 people. The facility will also have a third floor track around fieldhouse measuring 136 metres.

The children’s play area will have a two storey play structure with a tots play area. A fitness centre will be constructed on an area of 673m2 which will accommodate 80 people. It will also have male and female change rooms and two studios which will each accommodate approximately 30 people, or could be combined to a large 60 person studio.

On this occasion, Reeve Dale Gervais, MD of Greenview welcomed everybody present and wished all those working on the project, the very best. He expressed his happiness about how the multiplex will not only increase employment but also be a hub

for people of all ages, ensuring fitness and recreation for Valleyview and area residents.

Check out the updated building walk through on our website at http://mdgreenview.ab.ca/visitors/recreation/

Media inquiries may be directed to:Diane Carter, Communications OfficerDirect: 780.524.7625 Web: www.mdgreenview.ab.ca

Members of the Valleyview Regional Recreation Facility Design Committee from the Municipal District of Greenview and Town of Valleyview with land donors Brian and Joanne Gordon.

Pictured here are land donors Brian and Joanne Gordon with MD of Greenview and Town of Valleyview Councillors, Facility Design Committee Members, build team representatives from Scott Builders, ATB Architecture, and Project Manager Jocelyn Kew.

17Greenview, Alberta

Land Use Bylaw ReviewThe Municipal District of Greenview No. 16 (Greenview) held a recent briefing to the Council appointed Citizen Panel members followed by their first meeting held on December 8, 2015. Urban Systems is the contractor hired to assist with the review of the Land Use Bylaw (LUB). Each panel member was asked “What should a Land Use Bylaw identify?” Their answers included a variety of responses: regulating land use; addressing compatibility uses; provisions for access and routing; erosion control measures; nuisance and unsightliness regulations; guidelines to ensure consistent decisions; and direction to guide development within Greenview.

The group was asked to work together to identify the challenges and opportunities with the proposed update to the bylaw. A number of challenges were recognized including compatibility, identifying uses, servicing plans, communication and awareness information package, and enforcement and compliance. Some of the opportunities noted were to update the definitions section, provide clarity, add regulations for flooding and drainage, outline citizen consultation process, and creating a user-friendly bylaw.

The LUB will include provisions to address all those lands lying within the Hamlets of Little Smoky, Ridgevalley, DeBolt, Grovedale and Landry Heights. It will also cover rural areas comprising of agricultural, residential, commercial, industrial, recreation and crown lands within the corporate boundaries of Greenview. The Towns of Fox Creek, Grande Cache and Valleyview are separate entities which are not included in Greenview’s planning review.

It is anticipated the complete Land Use Bylaw review process could take approximately one year to conclude including six Citizen Panel meetings and public input through scheduled Open Houses. Throughout the review process, there will be updates provided in this newsletter to inform our ratepayers of the ongoing status. Press releases will be announced to ensure the public are well-versed on the changes being proposed to the LUB.

Should you have any questions regarding the above information, you may contact our Planning & Development Department Staff at 780.524.7600 or visit our website at www.mdgreenview.ab.ca.

Swan Lake AerationThe Municipal District of Greenview has temporarily taken over the aeration of Swan Lake since the Alberta Conservation Association has decided that it will not be able to do so for the 2015/2016 winter season. We have received very positive feedback from the users of Swan Lake regarding these efforts as they have created a safer family-friendly atmosphere.

Together with taking over the aeration of Swan Lake, Greenview has implemented an ice safety program which seeks to mitigate the issues related to liability of aeration. This includes:

• Installing steel fence panels around the aeration area.

• New signage warning of the dangers of being on ice.

• Daily checks to confirm public safety controls are maintained and adequate.

• Regular ice thickness testing.

• Increasing the awareness of the dangers of recreation on any lake in the winter, aerated or not.

We ask all users to be mindful of safe use of the ice so that we can continue to provide this recreation opportunity for our residents and visitors. If you have any questions about the aeration program, contact the Recreation Department at 780.524.7600.

18 Winter 2016

2015 Completed Road Construction Projects

Township Road 690Township Road 609 from Range Road 65 (Bald Mountain Tower Road) to Highway 40 for approximately 7.6 kms was re-graded to provide a safe and well maintained road networking system to ratepayers.

Young’s Point Chip SealChip seal is a pavement surface treatment that combines one or more layer(s) of asphalt with one or more layer(s) of fine aggregate. This project was an estimated 9.4 km from Hwy 43 to the Young’s Point Provincial Park entrance.

Forestry Trunk Road Improvements1) Kilometre 9The hill located on the Forestry Trunk Road at kilometre 9 was approximately 2 kms in length. This project is in progress from 2015 to current with a local contractor through day labour forces. Day Labour is used for short term contracts where the contractors

are hired through our annual equipment bid registry list.

2) Kilometres 50 to 70This project is approximately 20 kms in length, Greenview has completed the gravel placement within this area. This is an ongoing project that is taken on by Greenview and also contracted to day labour.

Residential AccessesWithin 2015 Greenview was able to complete 2 residential accesses for landowners. These projects were completed with local day labour.

Farmland AccessesIn 2015 Greenview completed 3 farmland accesses for ratepayers who did not currently have access to their land. These projects were also done using day labour.

Farmland and residential accesses are approved based on a Road Construction Request being filled out and reviewed by Greenview to see if the application meets the requirements of the approval process. These are then approved by Council to complete the projects.

Township Road 230 Re-gradeTownship Road 230 from Township Road 704 to Township Road 712 for approximately 7.4 kms was re-graded to provide a safe and well maintained road networking system to ratepayers.

DeBolt Sidewalks Greenview completed a reconstruction of the sidewalks in DeBolt that were in need of repair and/or replacement after the water main rehabilitation project.

19Greenview, Alberta

Landfill & Transfer Station Hours of Operation

SITE NAME DAYS OF OPERATION HOURS ACCEPTED MATERIAL

Little Smoky Transfer StationNW 13-66-22-W5M

Monday, Thursday, Saturday 11:00 am to 6:00 pmHousehold Waste

Metal

Wire Cable

Wire Fencing

Appliances

Wood

Tires

Cement

Batteries Household & Vehicle

Electronics Computers, Printers & TV’s

Paint

Household Hazardous Waste Containers

Only the sites highlighted in yellow accept:

Waste Oil Containers & the Used Oil

Old Oil Filters

Only the sites highlighted in blue accept:

Empty Pesticide Containers

Sturgeon Heights Transfer Station

NW 13-70-25-W5MMonday, Wednesday, Sunday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm

South Wapiti LandfillSW 34-69-08-W6M

Wednesday, Friday, Sunday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm

Sunset House Transfer StationNW 23-70-21-W5M

Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday

11:00 am to 6:00 pm

Grovedale Transfer StationSW 22-69-06-W6M

Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday

11:00 am to 6:00 pm

DeBolt Transfer StationSE 02-72-01-W6M

Wednesday, Friday, Sunday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm

New Fish Creek Transfer StationNW 16-72-21-W5M

Wednesday, Friday, Sunday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm

Puskwaskau LandfillNE 36-74-26-W5M

Thursday, Saturday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm

Sweathouse Transfer StationSW 04-70-19-W5M

Friday, Sunday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm

Sandy Bay Transfer StationNW 09-71-23-W5M

Walk-in access available all hoursHousehold Waste Only

Class IV

Greenview Regional LandfillSW 18-67-20-W5M

Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pmCommercial Industrial

Users Only

All locations are closed on statutory holidays. Consult our website for more information: www.mdgreenview.ab.ca

Greenview, Alberta, Canada

www.mdgreenview.ab.ca

ADDRESSED ADMAILPUBLICATION MAIL

AGREEMENT #40012786

2015 Photo Contest Awards PresentationWe thank everyone who provided entries to the photo contest. Winners were selected in a vote by Greenview staff based on which photos most closely met the contest criteria (horizontal orientation, high resolution photos, representing all seasons and regions of the municipality).

Kirsten Stewart, Anita Portsmouth, Liz Pollack, Judy Rieu, Alison Klassen, Leia King, Robin Stanich, Tammy Day, Christine Schlief Jordan Fjellner and Larissa Delorme were declared winners of Greenview Photo Contest 2015. Reeve Dale Gervais and Councillors presented the awards at a ceremony in Council chambers followed by a lunch banquet on January 12, 2016.

Greenview’s next photo contest will launch in fall 2016, so we encourage everyone to get out with their cameras and get ready! Throughout the entire year photo submissions are welcome for Greenview’s newsletter and promotional materials. Photographers can email their photos to m2m@mdgreenview.ab.ca with their full address and location where the photo was taken. Photos used throughout the year can be resubmitted as photo contest entries in the fall.

Pick up your 2016 calendar featuring the winning photos at any Greenview office.